DESCRIPTION OF VERDANT HARVEST PESTO PIZZA
The ‘Verdant Harvest Pesto Pizza’ marries the heartiness of cauliflower crust with the fresh zest of homemade pesto, topped with ribbons of zucchini, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese. This dish transforms the traditional pizza into a colourful, healthful meal that bursts with flavours of basil, arugula, and pine nuts, making it perfect for those who cherish a garden-fresh approach to pizza.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Dinner, Side
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 6
CUISINE
- Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Bake, No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Everyday Meals, Summer Gatherings, Health-Conscious Events
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Healthy, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Vegetarian
DISH TYPE
- Pizza
INGREDIENTS FOR VERDANT HARVEST PESTO PIZZA
- 2 cauliflower pizza crusts
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium zucchini, ribboned
- 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Pesto:
- 1 cup basil leaves, packed
- 1 cup arugula leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fiber: 5g
PREPARATION FOR VERDANT HARVEST PESTO PIZZA
- Prepare Pesto: Blend basil, arugula, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil until smooth—season with salt and pepper.
- Prep the Crusts: Preheat the oven as per the cauliflower crust package instructions.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread ricotta on each crust, then top with mozzarella, zucchini ribbons, and tomato slices.
- Add Pesto and Bake: Dollop prepared pesto over the toppings and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with shallots, red pepper flakes, and additional salt and pepper if desired.
PREP TIME
- 15 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 12 minutes
TIPS FOR VERDANT HARVEST PESTO PIZZA
- Ensure the cauliflower crust is pre-baked, if necessary, before topping to avoid sogginess.
- For extra flavour, drizzle a bit more olive oil over the pizza before serving.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken strips or shrimp for added protein.
- Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella with goat cheese or smoked provolone for a different flavour profile.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR VERDANT HARVEST PESTO PIZZA
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
This pizza not only satisfies those pizza night cravings but does so in a way that is aligned with a health-conscious lifestyle, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any day of the week.